Recycling Glasses
By Anna Barden
Whether you have a new vision prescription, you’ve upgraded your reading glasses, or you’re decluttering your wardrobe, it can be difficult to decide what to do with old glasses. Tossing them in the rubbish bin may seem like the easiest solution, but there are far better ways to give your old specs a second life.
You might be wondering, “Can you recycle glasses?” However, the answer is a bit more complex than a simple yes or no. While you might not be able to recycle glasses like you would other household materials, there are plenty of ways to ensure they don’t go to waste.
Can You Recycle Old Glasses?
No, you cannot recycle glasses in the same way you would glass or plastic. However, many programmes, charity shops, and organisations collect eyewear donations to help those in need. Instead of recycling glasses traditionally, you can donate your glasses to organisations that collect, clean, and distribute them for reuse.
You may be able to donate the following types of eyewear:
- Used prescription eyeglasses or sunglasses in good condition
- Unused or new eyeglasses
- Reading glasses
- Eyeglass frames
Each organisation has its own guidelines, and some may only accept new glasses. Be sure to confirm if your items are acceptable before sending them off.
Repurposing or donating old glasses can help those who need vision correction but may not have the resources to get it. While a glasses donation might seem small, it could make a meaningful impact on someone’s life. Plus, it can help cut down on landfill waste, which is beneficial for the environment.
Can You Put Eyeglasses in Regular Recycling Bins?
No, you typically cannot put eyeglasses, sunglasses, and other types of eyewear in ordinary recycling bins, as local recycling programmes usually do not accept spectacles. While you might not be able to recycle glasses in this way, you can still repurpose or donate them through alternative methods.
What to Do with Old Glasses
If donating used eyeglasses is not an option, there are other ways to handle your old glasses, including:
- Repurpose them for backup glasses or costume accessories.
- Replace the lenses to update your glasses.
- Dispose of them if no other options are viable.
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, check with your local optician. They may also have suggestions you can follow.
How to Replace Eyeglass Lenses
Replacing your eyeglass lenses is a great way to revive an old pair of specs. Whether you need a different strength, or your current lenses have run their course, a new set of lenses is an option to consider if you don’t want to toss your frames.
Many optical shops can replace your lenses as long as your eyeglass frames are intact and do not have a complicated shape. This route is ideal for scratched or damaged lenses. However, it also gives you the opportunity to keep your favourite frames instead of buying new ones. For those that have a signature style, this can be quite beneficial.
You may also be able to save some money by replacing only the lenses of your glasses. For more information, speak with your eye care professional.
Where Can You Donate Glasses?
Local charity shops may accept donations of old glasses, sunglasses, goggles, and other types of eyewear. Check with your preferred shop about accepted items before making your donation.
Other organisations you can donate old glasses through include:
- Lions Club International in the UK
- MYGroup in partnership with Specsavers
- Recycline
- OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation
- Eyes of Hope
Lions Club and other organisations sometimes place glasses collection bins in locations such as optical shops, libraries, places of worship, banks, and schools.
Donation methods vary among each institution, whether it’s through a public drop box or another collection option. You may want to research each company on your own and decide which is the best fit for your situation.
Your eye care provider may also have a collection box for old glasses. You can inquire about this before or during your next visit.
Should I Throw Away My Glasses?
If there is no viable alternative, you may need to throw away your glasses. Damaged frames or lenses may not be accepted for donation, and some organisations or charity shops in your area may not accept eyewear at all.
How to Dispose of Old Eyeglasses
If you determine that you need to throw your glasses away, make sure they are deposited properly into a rubbish bin.
For safety, secure the edges and wrap any sharp pieces in newspaper or a thick cloth before tossing them. This helps prevent injury to members of your household or those handling the rubbish. It also reduces the risk of tearing the bin bag, which could cause leaks or spills.
How Spectacle Donation Works
The process of donating and reusing spectacles depends on the individual organisation. In many cases, the following steps are taken:
- The glasses are inspected.
- The lens prescription is determined.
- The glasses are thoroughly cleaned for the next owner.
- The glasses are given to someone in need.
Some eye doctors participate in medical mission trips to provide free eye care to those without proper access to health care. Donated spectacles are often supplied on these trips.
While you might not be able to recycle glasses in the traditional sense, you can donate them or repurpose them to make a difference in someone’s life.
Sources
- Where to donate eyeglasses. All About Vision. February 2019.*
- How to buy new lenses for your favorite frames. All About Vision. January 2020.*
- How to donate old glasses & eyewear. Readers.com. Accessed November 2024.*
The sources listed here have been provided for informational purposes only. The citation of a particular source does not constitute an endorsement or approval of EssilorLuxottica products, services, or opinions by such source.
*Like Foster Grant, All About Vision, Readers.com, and AAV Media, LLC are affiliates of EssilorLuxottica.